“We Now Aim to Offer Integrated System Solutions Instead of Single Products!”

Operating in the fields of Communication Technologies, Defense Technologies, Field Operations, Automotive Technologies, and Electronics Manufacturing, and celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Karel showcased its 5G Private Mobile Network COM-BAT, In-Vehicle Communication Gateway COM-LINE, and Operational Headset System MOBAT solutions at World Defense Show 2026. These systems, which operate in full harmony with one another, provide an end-to-end secure and high-speed communication infrastructure in the field, while also demonstrating Karel’s identity as a comprehensive technology partner, built on more than 40 years of engineering expertise, strong R&D capability, and manufacturing experience.

Karel possesses a broad product portfolio including military field switchboards for land, air, and naval platforms, communication gateways and switching systems, shipboard telephone exchanges, ship alarm and announcement systems, naval platform training systems, handheld military computers, military intercom systems, and avionics solutions. By working in collaboration with local ecosystems, the company aims to develop sustainable, scalable, and localization-oriented solutions in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals in defense technologies. In this context, Karel seeks to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s defense industry vision and position itself as a long-term, sustainable technology solution partner in the country that supports localization.

At the exhibition, we visited the Karel booth and conducted a brief interview with Karel Military Systems Engineering Director Gürhan Günce Gürsel on the DS200T, portable hybrid-architecture military field switchboard with IP-based technology developed for both wired and wireless communications, as well as the COM-BAT 5G Private Mobile Network, which enables secure voice and video communication, real-time data sharing, and supports bandwidth-intensive applications across different unit levels in the field through DS200T infrastructure, along with the company’s ongoing defense projects.

Defence Turkey: Let us begin with the DS200T Military IP Field Switchboard. What kind of solution does this system offer to the user?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Essentially, the DS200T is a digital switchboard. However, it should not be considered merely as a conventional telephone exchange. This system provides a hybrid communication infrastructure that can operate with analog phones, field telephones, IP phones, radios, and tactical radios. In a sense, it can meet all communication requirements that a military unit may need within a single platform.

Defence Turkey: So, does it also have the capability to convert analog communication into digital?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Yes, absolutely. The system is a fully hybrid switchboard. It can perform conversions such as from analog to IP, from IP to radio, or enabling access from a field telephone to a radio at a remote location. For example, it is possible to extend a field telephone via cable up to 30 kilometers and access a radio through the switch connection at that distance.

Defence Turkey: When we consider this at the unit level, what scale are we talking about? Company-level, battalion-level?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: It is primarily designed for battalion-level units and above. Multiple units can be interconnected to form a broader communication network. This infrastructure also provides support for existing legacy systems.

Defence Turkey: At this point, is integration with systems such as TAFICS or TASMUS possible?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Certainly. Higher-level communication infrastructures such as TAFICS or TASMUS can be connected to the switchboard. In this way, the system can be enabled to communicate with higher-echelon units. When this integration is established, all traffic continues to flow through our switch. In fact, it can be thought of as simply plugging in an Ethernet cable; once that connection is established, the system can communicate with higher-level networks.

Defence Turkey: Is special cooperation required with system manufacturers to achieve this integration?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: We carry out all necessary adaptations. In any case, standard analog and digital interfaces already exist for switchboards to communicate with one another. In addition to digital interfaces such as PRI, we also have a SIP interface in the IP domain. Through this SIP interface, we can transfer information to higher-echelon units.

Defence Turkey: What kind of solution do you offer when a wired connection is not possible?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: In such cases, radio link solutions come into play. Instead of a cable, we connect two points using a radio link. Depending on geographical conditions, communication can be maintained over distances of up to 10-15 kilometers.

Defence Turkey: Cryptography is also a critical aspect of military communications. What is your approach in this system?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: We are not a direct producer of cryptographic systems. However, we support standard cryptographic infrastructures used in the telecommunications sector. The system is compliant with these standards. The management of cryptographic keys is handled by the user side.

Defence Turkey: What kind of efforts are you undertaking to make this infrastructure mobile?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: This is exactly where our 5G Private Mobile Network solution, which we call COM-BAT, comes into play. With this solution, we aim to create a mobile communication cloud in the tactical field. Once this communication cloud is activated, devices that can register to the system join the network via dedicated SIM cards to ensure security. At the same time, we use ruggedized 5G terminals tailored to military requirements. These terminals are sourced from four different partners we collaborate with and integrated into the system architecture. In this way, we create a closed and secure communication “bubble” in the tactical field. Ultimately, we provide an infrastructure referred to as Private 5G, which utilizes frequency bands allocated for dedicated use and delivers secure, controlled, and high-capacity data communication to military units.

Defence Turkey: Is this system designed only for land platforms?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: No, it has a very broad range of applications. The objective is to go beyond voice communication and support high-data applications such as video, imagery, positional data, and file sharing.

Defence Turkey: For example, could this system be used on a naval platform?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Yes, it can. For instance, on the flight deck of TCG Anadolu, where helicopter and Armed UAV operations are conducted, wide coverage is already provided and communication is currently carried out via radios.

We can make this infrastructure manageable through a 5G base station and mobile devices connected to this network. In this way, personnel can communicate through a more flexible and advanced communication infrastructure using 5G-enabled devices instead of conventional radio systems.

Defence Turkey: Could these types of systems also have civilian or semi-military applications? For example, within defense facilities.

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: It is definitely possible. For example, in facilities where sensitive manufacturing is carried out, personnel can be enabled to use their own controlled communication network. With Private 5G, a fully closed and secure mobile communication network can be established.

Defence Turkey: At this point, what is the difference between Wi-Fi and Private 5G?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: The most significant difference lies in authentication and management. While Wi-Fi relies on methods such as usernames and passwords, Private 5G uses SIM-based authentication. Once the SIM card is inserted, the device is automatically registered to the network, and this network can be kept entirely under control.

Defence Turkey: 5G is only just being introduced in Türkiye. What kind of timeline do you foresee for this technology?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: We do not aim to provide wide-area coverage like telecom operators. Instead, we plan to establish manageable networks with coverage of around 1-2 kilometers in confined areas such as military bases, ports, or specialized facilities.

Defence Turkey: Is the system ready for use now?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: We can say that it is ready; however, it would be more accurate to explain our approach as follows. As I mentioned earlier, we already have a communication solution where we position the DS200T at a fixed location and can establish connectivity with higher-echelon units when required. What we are now aiming to do is to expand this existing infrastructure by supporting it with 5G.

At its core, there is a 5G cloud. If we can connect the network infrastructure through this cloud to the Ethernet interface of our switchboard, then the following infrastructure emerges: all phones registered to the 5G network effectively become subscribers of our exchange system. This enables various communication scenarios via mobile devices. For example, a user can call a field telephone from a mobile phone, access IP phones connected to the switchboard, communicate with commanders at higher echelons, or connect to tactical radio networks. In other words, mobile devices become an integral part of the conventional military communication infrastructure.

Our goal is to approach Karel’s telecom solutions within holistic architecture. Rather than focusing on hardware production in the 5G domain, we concentrate on the application and service layer that will support this infrastructure. By positioning the switchboard as the core of the system and adding mobile networks, applications, and services on top of it, we aim to create a broader communication ecosystem. We demonstrated this approach with a live demo at the IDEF 2025 exhibition. In fact, we even leased a dedicated frequency band for the demonstration and operated the system under real conditions.

Our main focus is on network management and the development of applications that will run on this network. For example, with applications similar to “Karel Mobile,” we aim to support functionalities such as file sharing, location transmission, video calls, video conferencing, and various capabilities that enhance situational awareness.

Defence Turkey: I believe ULAK Communications is also working on similar developments in the 5G domain.

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Yes, ULAK also has solutions under development in this field. However, our approach is somewhat different. We do not focus on developing a 5G base station ourselves. In other words, we do not have an objective such as “producing our own base station.” Instead, we prefer to develop solutions that can integrate with 5G infrastructures developed by providers such as ULAK, Nokia, Ericsson, or Samsung. Our goal is to establish the application and service layer that will support communication scenarios on top of these base stations.

In this context, our 5G Private Mobile Network COM-BAT system is a key component. Within this system, there is a Mission Critical Push-to-Talk (MCPTT) application operating over 5G. In addition, it includes situational awareness applications, file and image sharing, video communication, and face-to-face communication solutions.

Furthermore, together with our In-Vehicle Communication Gateway COM-LINE solution, which can be used in the tactical field, we aim to build a product family that integrates all these capabilities.

Defence Turkey: Can this concept also be applied to low-altitude UAVs or surveillance aircraft? For example, the Police Aviation Department is carrying out a project called the “Wide Area Surveillance System.” This system will be integrated into King Air C90 aircraft. The aircraft will loiter at a certain altitude to monitor large areas in situations such as disasters or wildfires, enabling the detection of collapsed buildings and people trapped under debris, while transmitting the imagery to the ground. Could such a system also operate over 5G?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: In fact, most of these types of concepts have already been developed. Infrastructures we refer to as small cellular networks are particularly designed for disaster and emergency scenarios. One of the key application areas of Private 5G solutions is precisely these kinds of situations.

Generally, two different approaches stand out. One of them is the so-called “cell-on-wheels” solutions. In these systems, a mobile base station is mounted on a wheeled vehicle. When the vehicle reaches the incident area, the antenna is raised and a cellular coverage area can be established within a short time. Such systems are often supported by solar panels and battery systems, allowing them to operate in the field for extended periods.

The second approach consists of more compact solutions referred to as “network-in-a-box.” These are portable systems that can be carried in a hard case and rapidly deployed. They are particularly suitable for small teams or operations requiring rapid response. With these systems, field units can quickly meet needs such as video sharing and data transmission.

As KAREL, we have developed solutions that support both of these concepts. For example, we have a 5G solution that can be mounted on a mast, and by integrating it with DS200T, we can establish a communication infrastructure that can be deployed in the field. In addition, we also offer a “network-in-a-box” solution that can be carried in a case. We showcased this system at the IDEF 2025 exhibition.

Our main objective here is to expand services in the tactical field where DS200T is deployed, thereby creating a more mobile communication infrastructure. In fact, once the connection is established, all remaining data traffic can be transmitted over this infrastructure.

This approach creates significant export potential, particularly in countries where we already provide telephone exchange/switchboard infrastructure. We are conducting studies in this area with users to whom we have exported DS200T. In addition, in some cases, we also offer smaller-scale switching systems to provide more cost-effective solutions.

For instance, some of our models are designed to support a smaller number of subscribers. One system supports six field telephones, while another more compact solution operates with four field telephones. In return, their interfaces are more accessible and easier to deploy. Since these systems also feature a hybrid architecture, they can perform similar functions.

Ultimately, all of these solutions are built on the same fundamental approach: establishing communication and telecommunications infrastructure and adapting it to military use scenarios.

Defence Turkey: In that case, when we look at the current market, can all users currently operating DS200T be considered natural potential customers for you?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Yes, absolutely. Because there is already a exchange/switching infrastructure actively in use in the field. When we demonstrate that we can add new capabilities on top of this infrastructure, it becomes much easier both to conduct demonstrations and to explain to the user how this capability works. Instead of completely replacing the existing system, the approach of “adding a new capability to the current structure” is also more understandable and acceptable from the user’s perspective.

However, there are also certain challenges brought by the technology. One of the biggest advantages of the systems we develop ourselves is our ability to intervene when we encounter an issue. For example, when we detect an error in the switchboard or when a user raises a concern such as “this may not work in this environment,” we can rapidly develop solutions because we have full command of the entire design.

For example, if a concern arises regarding temperature, we can revisit cooling methods on the mechanical design side. If there is an issue on the electronic board, we can modify the placement of components in the board design. This kind of engineering flexibility is extremely valuable. In fact, in August last year, during the hottest period of the year, we conducted a field demonstration of the system and carried out a serious test in this regard. Therefore, working with a team that has design competence on both the hardware and software sides provides a significant advantage. In such projects, focused engineering capability is truly a decisive factor.

Defence Turkey: Was this demonstration carried out in Saudi Arabia?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Yes, we conducted a demo for DS200T in Saudi Arabia.

Defence Turkey: Was this demonstration intended for security institutions or military users?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: It was carried out directly with the military, specifically in cooperation with the Land Forces. However, the way of doing business there is somewhat different. As you know, in such projects it is generally necessary to work with a local partner. Therefore, we have made certain customizations and continue to do so.

Ultimately, once the product is integrated into the system, this market could become a new area of growth for us. However, when certain externally sourced technologies are involved, things can become more complex. Not every manufacturer takes the approach of “come and take the demo and use it as you wish.” In such cases, access and integration processes do not always proceed easily.

For this reason, we currently do not have a goal such as developing our own 5G base station. Of course, such a system could technically be developed, but this is not our priority. Instead, we focus on developing communication solutions that can integrate with existing infrastructures and operate on top of them.

Defence Turkey: They already have their own systems as well.

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Yes, exactly.

Defence Turkey: This actually works in their favor as well, especially considering their goal of increasing the localization rate to 50% by 2030.

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: We are also trying to position ourselves within that framework. As you can see, we have developed various devices and solutions. However, when you look at the reality in the field, even the use of systems such as IP phones can sometimes be quite complex. Processes such as installation, registration, and management are not always easy for the user.

Therefore, we prefer to use more readily available hardware whenever possible. In other words, we focus on developing applications that run on smartphones or tablets that anyone can easily use. In this way, we aim to shift engineering effort from hardware toward the application layer.

In fact, this approach reflects the broader transformation of our company. Karel has a history of nearly 40 years and has long been known as a company that develops strong exchange/switching solutions. However, today it is no longer sufficient to offer just a single product. When you provide a switch on its own, it ultimately remains just a standalone device.

On the other hand, when you add new capabilities on top of that product, a completely different level of value emerges. For example, integrating a radio unit, developing a new application, or introducing a previously untested use case can take the solution to an entirely different level.

This is because users already have a certain price perception in mind for exchange/switching systems. The value of the product is often evaluated within that framework. However, when you add new value-added capabilities, the overall value of the system can be elevated to a different level.

Thus, we now aim to offer not just individual products, but integrated system solutions. In other words, starting from unit-level products, we aim to transform them into an integrated system architecture and ultimately deliver solutions that truly address the operational needs of the user.

Defence Turkey: I assume Karel’s defense projects are not limited to this.

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: Yes, we have a quite broad portfolio. For example, the entire alarm system and ship telephone infrastructure of TCG Anadolu were provided by Karel. We also have solutions on the first eight ships of the MİLGEM project. On land platforms, intercom systems hold an important place. We provide intercom solutions to manufacturers such as FNSS, Nurol, and BMC. We are in a strong position in this field and have achieved significant market presence. Our current goal is to further develop these systems with next-generation solutions. We are working on new intercom architectures that utilize more readily available hardware, while we develop the core software and control capabilities.

Defence Turkey: If I am not mistaken, you also have work related to UAV engines?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: That is correct. Together with TEI, we developed the FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) for the PD170 engine. The software is developed by TEI, while the hardware infrastructure is our design. We provide them with a demo software package, and they load their own software onto the system.

In addition, for air platforms, we have our Backup Flight Indicator (BFI) system, which ensures flight continuity by independently calculating flight-critical data from its own sensors in case the primary flight display system becomes unavailable. The BFI enables platforms such as HÜRKUŞ-II, ATAK-2, KAAN, and SU-25 to operate safely and carry out their assigned missions.

Defence Turkey: Finally, how would you summarize Karel’s strategic approach in the defense domain?

Gürhan Günce GÜRSEL: In the past, we were primarily a company offering telephone exchange/switching solutions. However, we now aim to provide integrated system solutions rather than a single product. By combining communication infrastructure with applications, mobile networks, and tactical solutions, we focus on developing systems that address the real operational needs of the customer end-to-end, from R&D to production.

Defence Turkey: Mr. Gürsel, thank you for your time and we wish you continued success in your work.